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Panoz Esperante GTS
Panoz Esperante GTS
Panoz Esperante GTS
RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance
The Power to Reduce Friction
Quaker State – Recommended fill for the GTS
Welcome to the Panoz family. We want to thank you for all of the time
that you have taken and for placing your trust in us by purchasing a Panoz
Esperante GTS Race Car. We look forward to working and playing with you
at the race track.
This manual is meant to assist you in the care, tuning and enjoyment of
your GTS. The information compiled in this book is from our own experience
and that of your fellow racers. This manual will be constantly updated as
components are upgraded and information is accumulated. We would also
appreciate your input for future revisions to this book.
This manual will not provide specific race set-ups and strategies. We will
explain how to tune your suspension but other than a neutral starting point
we won't tell you how to set your suspension for individual events. For fur-
ther information about race strategies, suspension tuning, car set-ups and
driving techniques we recommend the following books:
• Tune to Win- Carroll Smith
• Drive to Win- Carroll Smith
• Prepare to Win- Carroll Smith
Taking Delivery
We have checked and double-checked the condition of the car. It should
be in good condition, however, we strongly suggest going through the car
with a torque wrench and a careful eye before you take it to the track. If
anything is wrong or out of place please let us know, we want to make sure
our system is working.
Please familiarize yourself with the basic layout of the car. Note the elec-
trical shut-off switch, fire extinguisher equipment and the fuel system safety
features. Pay attention to where the shipper tied the car down to the trailer.
There are many choices for tying down the car. The primary consideration is
for safety. Be sure to avoid damage to fuel lines, brake lines, suspension
parts and electrical wires when you tie it down to your own trailer.

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Summary of Contents for Panoz Esperante GTS

  • Page 1 RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance Quaker State – Recommended fill for the GTS Welcome to the Panoz family. We want to thank you for all of the time that you have taken and for placing your trust in us by purchasing a Panoz The Power to Reduce Friction Esperante GTS Race Car.
  • Page 2 THAT THEY VOLUNTARILY ACCEPT AND which service, whether or not recommended ASSUME ALL SUCH RISKS AND DANGERS, by Panoz, might be done or of the possibility INCLUDING SERIOUS PHYSICAL INJURY OR hazardous consequences of each conceivable DEATH AND ANY AND ALL RELATED DAMAGES,...
  • Page 3 Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance GENERAL SAFETY BRAKE DUST Wear a dust mask when dealing with brake assem- CARBON MONOXIDE blies or cleaning the rotors to minimize the hazard If the engine must be running to do some work, make sure the area is well ventilated.
  • Page 4 Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance GET TO KNOW YOUR PANOZ GTS Fuel Cell Your fuel cell should be serviced at least once a year. Driver’s seat The fuel pick up screens should be replaced, the We did not install the driver’s seat.
  • Page 5 Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance Suspension, Brakes, Wheels, Steering VEHICLE SPECIFICATIONS • SUSPENSION (F/R): Unequal length A Arm Penske single adjustable coil-over shock absorbers Dimensions Two-position adjustable sway bar, 1.25” dia.
  • Page 6 Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance Page 6...
  • Page 7 Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance Page 7...
  • Page 8 Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance Quaker State – Recommended fill for the GTS The Power to Reduce Friction At The Track Fuel Mileage ....... . .9 After On-Track Session .
  • Page 9 H: This is also a good time to bleed the brake and clutch systems since the car is off the ground. Typically the Panoz GTS cars get 4 miles per gallon. Panoz GTS cars have 32-gallon fuel cells. When I: Bleed brakes at least once during and after each measuring fuel;...
  • Page 10 Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance GTS Torque Specifications (CHECK BEFORE EACH RACE) Vehicle Part Description Torque LBS. Quantity Brake strut bar, rear __________ Brake strut bar, rear __________ Brake strut bar, front...
  • Page 11 Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance Seat Installation Because of differences in driver’s size these instruc- tions should be used as a general guideline only. A: Place seat tray inside of car.
  • Page 12: Table Of Contents

    Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance Quaker State – Recommended fill for the GTS The Power to Reduce Friction Driver Feedback Driver Feedback at the Track ......13 Crew Chief’s Communication Responsibilities .
  • Page 13: Driver Feedback At The Track

    Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance Driver Feedback at the Track E: Ask the driver several questions about his/her feedback. Ignore any emotion or ego and intently Often times, one of the most misunderstood practices listen for quality responses.
  • Page 14: Defining The Corner

    Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance Defining the Corner Common Feedback Traps To help the driver and crew chief understand each Cars that are loose on entry nearly always push in other it is important that they use the same terminology.
  • Page 15 Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance Page 15...
  • Page 16 ......18 Tuning the Panoz GTS ....... . .20 Test Conditions .
  • Page 17: General Information

    Omega (www.omega.com). EGT profiles are an improper engine tuning condition. shown in the jetting guide listed in this document. Panoz has found peak performance with the engine • Weather equipment - thermometer, barometer, timing set at 34° to 36°, total advance. This must be altimeter and air density meter.
  • Page 18: Throttle Linkage Adjustment

    Before you adjust the throttle linkage you should first check that the secondary butterfly valves open 100% when the throttle is fully opened. Panoz does this adjustment before delivery, but it’s a good idea to check it before you start racing or if you have purchased a Adjustment replacement carburetor.
  • Page 19 Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance Page 19...
  • Page 20: Tuning The Panoz Gts

    RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance Tuning the Panoz GTS V-8 Carburetor Jetting The Panoz GTS engine was tested to determine Page 21 is a summary of how to use jetting charts. operating parameters for best power and safe oper- Three charts (pages 24-26) are provided, one for ation.
  • Page 21: Changing Carburetor Jets

    Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance Determining Jet Size Vapor Pressure- The chart is used to determine water vapor pressure. Estimate the relative humidity to Quick and easy method select the proper row of the chart : Use 0% for crisp dry weather, 50% for average days and 100% for A: Determine the altitude of the racetrack.
  • Page 22: Exhaust Gas Temperature

    Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance Exhaust Gas Temperature (EGT) Carburetor Adjusting EGT was measured at the end of a long dyno pull, A: Check for wide open throttle (set pedal heights for with three different fuels.
  • Page 23: Idle Air Adjustment

    Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance Idle Air and Air Screw Adjustment: The objective for adjusting the idle air mixture is to keep the car running properly and not load up during idle and low speed conditions.
  • Page 24: Jetting Charts

    Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance Quaker State – Recommended fill for the GTS Panoz GTS JEtting – Sunoco 94 Octane Pump Gas (v.2) NOT RECOMMENDED The Power to Reduce Friction Altitude Altitude...
  • Page 25 Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance Quaker State – Recommended fill for the GTS Panoz GTS Jetting – 100LL Aviation Gas (v.2) NOT RECOMMENDED The Power to Reduce Friction Altitude -1000 ft 0 ft...
  • Page 26 Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance Quaker State – Recommended fill for the GTS Panoz GTS Jetting – Sunoco Standard Leaded 110 Octane RECOMMENDED The Power to Reduce Friction Altitude -1000 ft 0 ft...
  • Page 27 SPARK PLUG TECH TALK To avoid problems later, it is always wise to check Panoz recommends when installing spark plugs to that the plug has the correct reach for the engine and use a torque wrench and the correct torque in ft.-lbs.
  • Page 28: Spark Plugs

    Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance Spark Plug Analysis 13: Partially Melted Center Electrode A melted electrode, with a white and/or blistered insu- (Reference plug image chart on page 29) lator tip indicates incorrect heat range or insufficient installation torque.
  • Page 29 Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance Page 29...
  • Page 30 Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance Quaker State – Recommended fill for the GTS The Power to Reduce Friction Maintenance Periodic Maintenance Schedule ....31 Service Maintenance Intervals .
  • Page 31: Periodic Maintenance Schedule

    • Bleed brakes; Every race, use Brembo 600 or equivalent (Do not mix) • Brake pads and rotors; Inspect after every run • Shocks; 40 hrs. Shocks must be sent to Panoz/Penske to be rebuilt and resealed. • Springs; No service life has been determined. Periodic inspection and testing recommended.
  • Page 32: Service Maintenance Intervals

    Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance Service Maintenance Intervals ● = Minimum ◆ ◆ ◆ = Inspect ◆ ◆ = Recommended Service Item Track Events Hours of Operation Every >>...
  • Page 33: Oil Change

    Oil Change Power Steering Fluid Level A: Place car on jack stands. Before delivery Panoz Auto Development modifies the power steering pump reservoir to increase expansion B: Remove 2 (two) drain plugs from oil pan. (3/4”), capacity. Fluid level should be just over the plastic front sump and rear sump.
  • Page 34: Hardware And Torque Specifications

    Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance Hardware and Torque Specifications When working with the hardware (bolts, nuts, screws, etc...) it is important to know the proper use and torque specifi- cations.
  • Page 35: Radiator Fill Procedure

    Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance Radiator Fill Procedure 7. When you remove the radiator cap, there may not 1. Confirm all hose clamps and water jacket fittings be water in the neck.
  • Page 36 Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance Quaker State – Recommended fill for the GTS The Power to Reduce Friction Engine Engine Removal ......37 Engine Installation .
  • Page 37 (set idle, fuel pressure, etc refer to page 22-23 for ball, transmission and oil filter remote. carburetor adjustment procedure). Check timing. D: Before installing engine into the car, write down all of your Panoz Seal Numbers: timing cover, intake, transmission and valve covers. Page 37...
  • Page 38 (Refer to MSD instructions for proper installation) IMPROPER INSTALLATION Of GEAR WILL CAUSE PREMATURE WEAR ON DISTRIBUTOR AND CAM GEAR. If you have any questions or require additional information, please call your local CSR or Panoz Auto Development. Page 38...
  • Page 39 Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance Page 39...
  • Page 40 Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance Quaker State – Recommended fill for the GTS The Power to Reduce Friction Driveline Clutch Slave Free Play Adjustment ....41 Clutch Pedal Adjustment .
  • Page 41: Clutch Slave Free Play Adjustment

    Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance Clutch Slave Free Play Adjustment Clutch Pedal Adjustment This section is a caution to keep in mind when The GTS is equipped with a clutch pedal stop, mount- installing and adjusting the clutch slave, with the ed in the chassis firewall.
  • Page 42: Quarter Master

    Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance Quarter Master Clutch Installation • Screwdriver set • Jack stands with a minimum rating of 2 tons each Please familiarize yourself with the tools and proce- •...
  • Page 43: Clutch/Bellhousing Removal

    Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance Clutch/Bellhousing Removal 11. Unbolt the starter on the lower right side of the bell housing (as you are facing the front of the ALWAYS WEAR SAFETY GLASSES WHEN REMOVING/ car underneath).
  • Page 44 Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance Internal Clutch Slave: 23. Using an alignment tool (contact Tremec or Quarter Master for tool) place the six 5/16” bolts 15. If you have the internal slave cylinder, remove into the holes and lightly tighten them down.
  • Page 45: Clutch Bleed

    Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance 32. Re-install the transmission tunnel. 12. Remove two 1/2” nylocs holding clutch master cylinder. 33. Re-install the two 1/2” bolts to the remote shifter linkage.
  • Page 46: Transmission Fluid Change

    Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance Transmission Fluid Change Differential Fluid Change 1. Remove drain plug at the bottom of the transmission. !. Remove drain plug from the bottom of the differen- tial and let fluid drain into pan.
  • Page 47 Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance Page 47...
  • Page 48 Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance Quaker State – Recommended fill for the GTS The Power to Reduce Friction Brake System Brake Bleed .........49 Brake Pedal Assembly &...
  • Page 49: Brake Bleed

    Brake Bias Cable Brake Pedal Assembly & Balance Bar Adjustment Instructions Clevis This specifically refers to the Panoz GTS with the Brembo Brake System (Calipers and Rotors). It does Front Master Cylinder not apply to other brake configurations. PANOZ GTS BRAKE BALANCE BAR SET UP BY Pivot PERFORMANCE FRICTION CORPORATION.
  • Page 50: Bias Bar Set Up And Technical Notes

    Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance With the clevises set on the adjuster, measure the Bias Bar Set-up and Technical Notes distance between them and the bias tube itself. If the...
  • Page 51: Brake Pedal Geometry

    Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance Brembo Brake Disc Assembly Brake Pedal Geometry Insure that all the parts that are to be re-used are in With the bias bar geometry correct we now turn our good condition.
  • Page 52: Replacing Rotors

    Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance Welcome Replacing Rotors Brake rotors will crack; small cracks are normal. However any cracks that travel all the way to the edges should be noted.
  • Page 53 Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance Page 53...
  • Page 54 Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance Quaker State – Recommended fill for the GTS The Power to Reduce Friction Body Section Body Panel Care Guide ....... .55 Fastener Inspection .
  • Page 55 This section will give you information and tips for car- fasteners between each track event. Because of the ing for your Panoz GTS body panels. It includes fas- nature of the plastic panels it is possible for the joints tening information, approved cleaning products, to become loose due to vibration and unfortunate car chemical resistance, and effects of vinyl and tapes.
  • Page 56 Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance Repair L: Pot life is 1-3 hours @20°C/68°F The ABS panels can be repaired. If you get a small M: Apply DG DirectGloss Color.2 normal coats crack in your panel, we recommend drilling a small 1.4-1.6 mm...
  • Page 57 Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance EFFECT OF CHEMICALS FOUND IN SHOPS ON BAYER PLASTICS MATERIALS NO ATTACK EXPECTED MINIMUM ATTACK MODERATE ATTACK SEVERE ATTACK GENERALLY USEABLE USEABLE ONLY WITH...
  • Page 58 Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance COMPATIBILITY OF TAPES AND WEATHERSTRIPS ON BAYER PLASTICS NO ATTACK EXPECTED MINIMUM ATTACK MODERATE ATTACK SEVERE ATTACK GENERALLY USEABLE USEABLE ONLY WITH NOT RECOMMENDED...
  • Page 59 Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance EFFECT OF CLEANERS ON BAYER PLASTIC MATERIALS NO ATTACK EXPECTED MINIMUM ATTACK MODERATE ATTACK SEVERE ATTACK GENERALLY USEABLE USEABLE ONLY WITH NOT RECOMMENDED NO STAIN ON PLASTIC...
  • Page 60 Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance Quaker State – Recommended fill for the GTS The Power to Reduce Friction Suspension Ride Height ....... . .61 Shock Settings .
  • Page 61: Ride Height

    Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance Introduction improve traction, as the pinion will tend to rise during acceleration. Pinion angle must be set in the range of The information in this section will help you with the 3°-5°.
  • Page 62: Sway Bar Adjustment

    Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance Square Rear-end Housing Rear Rear-end housing should be 14”-14 1/4” from chassis A: Rear sway bar has three settings. to housing. Place string over axle housing at 4-link B: The hole to the rear of the car is full stiff.
  • Page 63: Controlling Under Stress

    If you have not tions. The Panoz GTS is usually released from the performed that exercise adding a little more toe out factory with conservative alignment settings. These will help you during turn in.
  • Page 64: Exiting A Corner

    Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance Exiting a corner Proper camber is important to controlling understeer conditions. Too much or not enough camber affects This is the area that starts at or just before the apex your contact patch.
  • Page 65: Shocks

    Joel Grewett directions, cannot put power down in slower corners at Panoz Auto Development [888.467-2660 or (wheel spin) and lack overall grip after initial turn in. If jgrewett@panozauto.com].
  • Page 66: General Track Tuning Tips

    Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance Rebound adjustments are usually indicated by the Rebound in Front Usually Effects: driver asking for more stability. By increasing low • Middle speed damping, stability will be enhanced; decreasing •...
  • Page 67: Pirelli Tire Care And Feeding

    Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS Panoz Esperante GTS RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance Pirelli Tire Care and Feeding Tire Pressures The Pirelli P-Zero slicks are considerably different • Hot tire pressures should be approximately 31psi than the Michelin slick or Hoosier race tire. The side hot, all four corners.

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